LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the province’s first sky glass bridge, to be constructed in Kotli Sattian near Murree, as part of a broader push to boost tourism infrastructure in the region.
The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting co-chaired by Nawaz Sharif and the chief minister, where officials reviewed progress on the Murree Protection and Rehabilitation Plan. Authorities also agreed to bring in international experts to tackle persistent landslide risks in the area.
Maryam Nawaz directed immediate action to mitigate downhill soil movement and ensure relief and rehabilitation for communities affected by landslides in areas including Chatta Mor, Darya Gali, Bansera Gali, Naml, and Jhika Gali.
In addition to the glass bridge, the meeting approved the development of three new hospitality zones in Shawala, Sozo, and Brewery areas. These zones will feature five-star-standard hotels developed in partnership with the private sector. A dedicated team of experts will oversee the broader rehabilitation project, while authorities were instructed to promptly clear debris from recent anti-encroachment operations.
Infrastructure upgrades are also planned, including widening Jhika Gali Road and Reach Bil Road by 10 feet each. The chief minister set a one-month deadline to begin construction of the proposed Murree Glass Train project.
Officials were briefed on plans to establish three new parks—Angoori Road Park, MIT Park, and Ariari Park in Kotli Sattian—as well as a zoological garden and eco-zone in Bansera Gali. The zoo will include facilities such as a bear enclosure, tiger habitat, and bird aviary, alongside a modern conference facility and bridge crossing.
A glamping pod village is also planned at Chewra Hill, envisioned as a high-end tourist destination to be managed by the private sector. Additional projects include a paragliding club in Chewra and ongoing developments like the Kotli Sattian chairlift, Punjab House, and Forest Rest House.
To address water shortages, the chief minister ordered the completion of a feasibility report by April 30 for a bulk water supply scheme sourcing from the Jhelum River. Officials reported that rainwater harvesting systems have already been installed in over 187,000 homes across Murree and Kotli Sattian, easing water access for local residents. Water supply schemes in Dhar Jawa and Donga Gali have also been completed.
The meeting further approved the establishment of Punjab’s first Facility Management Unit, which will oversee the construction, maintenance, and management of government buildings, including Punjab Houses, across the province.